Brand Spotlight; Sudio

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Vasa Blå earbuds; White with Rose Gold Accents by Sudio Sweden

Vasa Blå earbuds; White with Rose Gold Accents by Sudio Sweden

Often times when something looks too good to be true, it is probably because it is. Especially with our modern day gadgets. 

Sudio Sweden has crushed the stereotype - With its clean lines and on-point pop of rose gold, the Vasa Blå earbuds by Sudio are the perfect blend of fashionable AND functional.

These Vasa Blå wireless earbuds go with me everywhere. On a walk, at the coffee shop and even at the airport, I am stuck on these buds! They come with the cutest leather carrying pouch for easy stow and go.  The quality transcends podcasts to pop-tunes. I am totally hooked and hope you will be too. Shop Sudio and take 15% off your purchase with code: sarade at check out!

xx

Sara De

4th of July in Oceanside

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Oceanside Pier // Oceanside, CA

Oceanside Pier // Oceanside, CA

To me, nothing is better than spontaneous trips. Our first Fourth of July back in LA almost came and went without any major plans until our friends Dane and Amy put a sparkler under our booties and we set off together for Oceanside. 

We had just about 24 hours to make the most of our holiday. Board games, smash-ball, crashing waves, new recipes and beach city exploring made for the perfect short but totally sweet mini-vacay.

We strolled the Oceanside strand with warmth on our backs and a breeze at our cheeks. It was the perfect afternoon activity. Next time you are in the area, stop at "That Boy Good" in downtown Oceanside for the best BBQ in Southern California. The Mac and Cheese is out of control and the Louisiana atmosphere is authentic as can be. 

We ended the evening with a cotton candy sunset and a bubbly toast to what was a totally spontaneous, extra special time with the sea.

xx

Sara De

My Go-To Guacamole!

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My first recipe post! Cooking is just as much a significant part of my life as travel. I think it appropriate that I share the simple and easy recipes that keep my (old as dirt, but kind of cute despite the color) counter tops buzzing! 

The Penny Perspective is all about keeping things simple, sustainable, and colorful. That doesn't change in the kitchen. Quality ingredients, with a dash of salt and pepper goes a long way. This simple and easy guacamole recipe is anything but basic and makes for the perfect afternoon snack or centerpiece at your next potluck!

HERE IS WHAT YOU WILL NEED :

  • 2 large, ripe avocados
  • 1 large lime 
  • 1 clove of garlic, minced
  • 12 cherry tomatos, quartered
  • 1 small handful of cilantro
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • Your favorite tortilla chips

** This is a comfortable starter for 3 people, and totally filling snack for 2 people.

Grab a cutting board, your favorite kitchen knife and crank up the tunes - it's  guacamole time! I like to chop the tomatoes, mince the garlic and slice the lime before coring out my avocados. Once all of the smaller produce is ready to go, I cut open my avocados, core out the meat and get to mashing. The back-side of a fork is all you need! Feel free to be your own master of texture. If you prefer a heftier bite, lighten up on your mashing. If you prefer a smoother feel, go to town! That's the glory of guacamole!

Once both avocados are blended in the bowl, layer in your tomatoes and garlic. Next have a strong squeeze of the whole lime and sprinkle in your salt and pepper to taste! Lastly, rough chop your bundle of cilantro, dust over the top and mix. VIOLA! You have a down right easy and totally delicious crowd pleaser. 

I have set you up with the basics, but feel free to play with your palete! If you prefer a little more freshness, throw in some extra cilantro or lime. If you are missing that tangy crunch of an onion, make that addition! Hot for some heat? Dice up some jalapeño or green chilies for that warm kick. The bowl is your oyster!

15 minutes and a hungry crowd is all you will need to see this come to life. Hope you enjoy! Feel free to leave a comment highlighting your experience! Happy dipping!

xx

Sara De

Brand Spotlight: Jins

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Setting out on a sunny European vacation, I knew I needed the perfect pair of shades to make the trip with me. Thankfully my friends over at Jins were able to help me out with that! Comfortable, affordable and down-right-sexy, these shades are the perfect pair to wear this Summer. 

Order yours online by clicking the link HERE, or shop others styles on the Jins website!

 

Thank you again to Jins for the partnership.

xx

Sara De.

Conquering the Carry-On! Summer Packing Tips to Help You Skip the Baggage Line!

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When it comes to packing for a trip, I like to consider myself a PRO! I have been successful in packing a months worth of NECESSITIES (being the operative word here) in a single Carry-On and Backpack combo - even with room to spare! Half the trouble with packing is being able to say "NO" to the things that take up needed space. Below I will list tips on consolidating, suggestions for optimizing space and will encourage you to say "YES" to the things that you actually need and "see you when I get back" to the rest!

Conquering the Carry-On:

  1. A key to packing is remembering that typically, no matter where you are, (despite some adventure-travel deep within rural or underdeveloped areas) you more than likely will have access to a washing machine.  The washing machine is your friend. The washing machine enables you to leave all 6 extra pairs of jeans at home so you can focus on the 1 or 2 you actually need to bring. Cutting your "must take" garments pile in half is a good start to this exercise! What I think anyone really needs for 3+ weeks of Summer travel is this:
  • 1 pair of denim and 1 athletic pant
  • 1 light sweater and 1 jacket for warmth
  • 1-2 light cotton dresses / 1 maxi skirt
  • 2 pairs of shorts
  • 8/10 shirts
  • 2 pairs of shoes. One walking sneaker; One sandal
  • A few pairs of socks
  • Toiletries (though those can be bought and utilized on an "as-needed basis" whilst away)
  • 1 set of PJ's
  • A handful and a half of undies / 2 Bathing suits 
  • Toothbrush, HairBrush, MakeUp Bag

2. Compartmentalizing is KEY. I think that packing bags/squares/cubes are an essential part of staying organized and making it all fit! I bought a set of Bloomora laundry bags to help consolidate my essentials. Using a "rolling technique" v. folding can really save you some extra inches! 

3. When it comes down to the travel day, wear your bulkiest items on the plane. You can always layer-off when you are ready for departure without sacrificing space in your bag!

4. Pick styles that are neutral and versatile. Chic, simple, and comfy is the only way to travel-lite! If you pick "statement pieces," you more than likely won't re-wear these garments and ultimately waste space for the classics.

5.  Stuff those sneaks with socks and undies (assuming you dont wear that bulkier item on the plane.) Sit on that suitcase and zip it tight! I know this seems like it may be a lot for one little carry-on but trust me, you can do it!   This is my 21in. TravelPro MaxLite 4 and very rarely does it not fit  the carry-on size standards for airlines. I believe only some budget airliners throughout Europe have asked for smaller. 

The Basic Backpack:

Your backpack is the 1 personal item you are allowed to carry-on as well as your luggage. This is where all the immediate necessities need to be stored:

  • Wallet
  • Travel Documents
  • Headphones
  • Sunglasses
  • Snacks
  • Water
  • Camera/Cellphone
  • Ipad/E-reader/Tablet/Book
  • Immediate Meds
  • Chapstick
  • Etc.

The idea behind this is simple; while adding new things to your "must take pile" ask yourself, do I REALLY need this?! If you answer is anything over than, "Of Course!" ..... ditch it and leave room in your bag for epic souvenirs along the way.

Pro tip: for all you girls out there having trouble OVERpacking, play "the packing game" with your boyfriend or brother. This is a cut throat, dudes-version of packing that will revolutionize the way you see necessities. Hold up the garment, defend its honor and if the boy thinks its excessive, he's is probably right. Hah!

Remeber, this is supposed to be fun! The excitement starts with packing and trust me, the excitement  continues when you are out exploring with less "stuff" to worry about! Pack light, pack right and have a good flight! 

 

xx 

Sara De.

Penny's Picks: theBalm Lip Matt(e) & Sam Edelman Booties

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Sara wearing "Adoring" Meet Matt(e) Hughes by theBalm Cosmetics

There are a few things every gal needs in her style-arsenal and in my opinion, that is a go-to red lip color and chic pair black booties. These classic staples round out any weekend wardrobe. Whether its a casual lunch date or fancier night on the town, look to these timeless pieces!

I have heart-eyes right now for this long wear lip color: Meet Matt(e) Hughes Long Lasting Lip Color by theBalm cosmetics. The shade I am wearing above is "Adoring." With no need for lipliner, this matte paints on beautifully and lasts! I personally love a satin finish and this product give just that!

Grab Meet Matt(e) Hughes Long Lasting Lip Color here!

Circus by Sam Edelman Rylan Mid-Calf Boot 

These Sam Edelman booties are the apple of my eye! I have searched far and wide for the perfect pointy black bootie, and my search is over! Comfortable, chic and classic, these booties leave the house daily. The inseam zipper makes for easy on/off access and metal detailing on the toe adds some flash!

Pick up these perfect pointed booties here!

Aside from being two wonderful products, these additions to my outfit of the day made me feel beautiful! Thats what it is all about!

xx

Sara De

Brand Spotlight: Dark Water Classic

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Sara in San francisco with the "shutter" camera strap/ dark water classic

My dear friend Eric, founder and craftsman over at Dark Water Classic, has always been an eclectic soul. A tattooed, guitar wielding, salty-skinned, beach boy restored himself in his rustic roots when creating this from-the-heart brand last August. Specializing in the best of the best leather goods (wallets, camera/guitar straps, belts, keychains.....) and accessories, Dark Water Classic is your one stop shop for premium quality finds.

I took a moment to get deeper into the "Dark Water." I asked Eric a few questions about all things DWC:

Q: Dark Water Classic is a unique name; Where does its meaning stem from?

A: The name Dark Water Classic is inspired from many of the things I love and enjoy in life.  So when I talk about "dark water", it is basically a metaphor for the ocean, oil & gasoline, Ink, coffee, and beer & whiskey.  What they have in common is that they are of dark liquid substance, and they are traditional, classic and historic elements. 

Q: What is the philosophy behind your brand/process?

A: Basically with DWC, I just really set out to design and craft items that are useful. Items made of good quality so they will last.  As far as process goes, everything I have made has started as a sketch with pen and paper.  Once its drawn out, measurements dialed in and the music is turned up, I take it to the workbench and start bringing it to life.

Q: What has been your favorite product to craft so far and why?

 A: Putting wallets aside, my favorite product to make is the Sling guitar strap.  I've been a guitarist for 18 years now and probably the coolest thing I can say I have accomplished is crafting the most comfortable guitar strap I have ever worn.  Whether  I'm hanging my smallest parlor body acoustic from it, or a big ass anchor of a solid body electric, theres no difference in comfort and reliability in the strap.  So yea, its the little things in life that get me I suppose.

Q: When in the shop, what tune gets your work gears going?

A: The very first thing I do everyday when I set foot in the shop is I turn on Pandora, Gary Clark Jr. "Catfish Blues Radio".  The Blues really just put me at ease and bring me into a mindset where I can lose track of time and work hours on end.  The better the music you're listening too, results in the better quality of products you make. ( This is something I made up in my own head, but I stand by it )

Q: If DWC got a "celebrity endorsement", who would you hope for?

A: If I were to get a celebrity endorsement, on a serious level, I would be stoked to have Dave Grohl from the FooFighters.  Dave is the man.  And one day he will probably be president........But on a non serious level, Haley Joel Osment.

Q: What can a costumer expect from their relationship with DWC?

A: I am a very hands on, communicative small business owner.  I love interacting with my customers.  I love talking to them & getting to know them.

Q: When you are not hammering away in the shop, what are you getting into!?

A: Well I work DWC 7 days a week, but at the end of the day I am only human so I do take breaks.  I play guitar every single day, every little break from leather work.  I try and surf as much as possible, but the beach trips have died down since DWC launched.  Being a one man operation aint an easy business to build from the ground up, but I love it.  I am always keeping busy.

Q: List three words that represent DWC?

A: Genuine, Quality, Craftsmanship

Dark Water Classic is a labor of love in more ways than one. In the 10 years I have known Eric, I have always viewed him as a romantic. He has surely proven that by building this business from the ground up, much in his Fiancé's honor. From trading in his hot-rod for an engagement ring, to creating an established business, this rock-n-roll romantic is using what he can to give them the intimate nuptials of their dreams. What a guy!

As a photographer, I was itching to get my hands on the BEAUTIFUL "Shutter" camera strap. Over the past several years of wearing large bodies around my neck, I have never had a camera strap immediately feel so comfortable. I requested a 31" adjustable strap; Being that every single order is hand-crafted, I was beyond thrilled to be able to ask for EXACTLY what I wanted. What came in the mail was more than I expected. The leather soft and silky against my skin; The hardware rustic and perfect in size; The clean logo sharply embossed on the tail end of the strap.  It is sturdy, sexy and sustainable! It is the perfect strap for me. Head on over to DWC Website now, and do yourself a favor!

xx

Sare De

Brand Spotlight: LittleJ HeadBands

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Sara wearing Little J Headbands in "Army" // Photo: Shawn Whelchel

I felt particularly pretty out on the streets of San Francisco rocking my Little J Headband. I was contacted by them a few weeks ago about a collaboration and was immediately interested. Not only are these handmade, unique, statement accessories, but with every purchase a donation is made. A portion of each order is donated to ALSA.org toward research, care services, public education and public policy.

May is ALS Awareness month. Head over to the website & place your orders now! Enter the code: sarade10 at checkout and receive 10% off your purchase!  Support small business' who make a big impact! Fashionable and Fundraising!

“I can change the world with my own two hands.”
— Jack Johnson

This collaboration has been special to me, not only because this is killer headwear, but because I believe in their message. Through dedication, skill, and generous hearts LittleJ Headbands has picked up speed in the small business world! 

World Wide Instameet 13; Tennessee Valley

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Photographers meet at Tennessee Valley Beach // Mill Valley, CA

Photographers meet at Tennessee Valley Beach // Mill Valley, CA

It was a bluebird morning in the Bay Area; So we crossed the Golden Gate and head for the coast. Tennessee Valley is a special hiking space that leads down to a small beach in the Marin Headlands. The trail head is just off the N. 101 Freeway, at the end of winding Tennessee Valley Road. This is a popular Trail for beach goers, hikers, and biker alike, so prepare for a busy parking lot.

I, with 30 other photographer friends, made the trek creating portrait, and landscape art along the way. The flat, easily manageable,  two mile walk from the trailhead to the shore is peppered with horse corrals, canvas yurts and Spring wild flowers. Idyllic! This was a gathering powered by Instagram; The World Wide Instameet 13, hosted by my best friend Emma Fineman, along with friends Harry Glazier and Cory Marryot. For those who have never attended an "Instameet" - they are sponsored gatherings where professional, amateur and photo enthusiasts alike, meet at a local destination, tell its story and build community. We hug, shake hands, chat, network, and create beautiful things from the experience. In my opinion, the best part about meets aside from gorgeous camera content, is making new, likeminded friends. Some that last a lifetime! 

I am sure, as you will notice in my posts, I LOVE taking pictures of people. Destinations inspire. I mean, they are my one true joy; to seek them and savor is why I travel. But when a human(s) is involved in the frame too, it adds a whole new element to the story and emerges new life within it. Below are some portraits I took and then, some taken of me.

Tennessee Valley shown bright under the a warm sun and cloudless sky. We managed to find the kind of light (or lack there of) and shadows we needed in deep rock crevasses and under colored cloth. The wind was wild, sea breeze fresh and mood exciting. It was a very special morning spent with kindred creatives and I was so happy to be apart of it!

If you'd like to see more photos from myself and other photographers from this day in Tennessee Valley, search #WWIM13TVM on Instagram or click here!

Portraits of me by: David Leong

xx

Sara De.

5 Years of Love and Life; Vasquez Rocks, LA

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Shawn and Me // 5 year anniversary; Vasquez Rocks, Agua Dolce, CA

Shawn and Me // 5 year anniversary; Vasquez Rocks, Agua Dolce, CA

(Press Play On The Song Below To Set The Mood!)

I have a best friend and his name is Shawn. Dating for 5 years and still pretty damn thrilled with one another. I would say the past 5 years have been the best of our lives for many reasons. He reminds me to relax; I push him to strive. He pours me a drink, I rub his feet. We are considerate of each other, validating when we should be, and brutally honest even when it stings. He works hard for me, and I for him. He makes me laugh from my belly and I make him giggle like a girl. We are a team.

There is so much love here and I am so thankful to Emily Magers for extending herself and her photography services with this Anniversary Session. It was suggested that Shawn and I round out our week-long vacation artfully with a love infused photoshoot. We jumped at the chance. I just needed something to wear!

We had just visited Scottsdale for your Spring Training Trip and on the very last morning, we strolled by a very quirky and colorful window display. It was of Fashion by Robert Black, just off the main drag in Downtown Scottsdale, AZ. I walked in and was in shoppers paradise. One of a kind vintage dresses and gowns, COLOR CODED. Heaven WAS a place on earth. I looked through every single item on the racks and LAST but not least, tried on this gorgeous emerald green, hand stitched dress from Guatemala. The dress fit me like a glove. It was as if someone made it for my body alone. I had to have it, so I did. There wasnt a more perfect opportunity to show off my new purchase than the following day back in California.

That next evening, we set out with Emily to have ourselves a good time in beautiful Vasquez Rocks just before sunset. With Hozier’s “Cheery Wine” playing from the stereo speakers, looking sweetly into Shawn’s kind green eyes, I felt deeply at peace. Seems strange to feel so genuine and autheric when it was “on the spot” like that; a camera darting at your every mood. But we were, and it was raw and honest. How often throughout your week or day are you forced to stare extensively  into the eyes of your lover? Where your only job is to loose yourself in the color patterns of their eyes? Not often, right?! Those are moments taken for granted. That practice is priceless. That connection is palpable. That exercise gave us an unreal product that we will now have forever in these photos. You better believe since then; since learning what love, joy, warmth, lust, and calm comes from starring intentionally  into your partners eyes, I stop the world and do it a lot more. Try it, see. 

 
 
“It was the time when they loved each other best, without hurry or excess, when both were most conscious of and grateful for their incredible victories over adversity. Life would still present them with other mortal trails, of course, but that no longer mattered; they were on the other shore.”
— Gabriel García Márquez
 

A giant thank you goes out to Emily Magers for capturing us during this blissful time. Cheers to so many more years of pictures with my perfect partner.

xx

Sara De

What Travel Means to Me?

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My entire life, I have felt an itch that I could never scratch.

Feeling like a well rounded individual, this annoying, tiresome and confusing emptiness subtly haunted me. I’d think to myself; “You’re conventionally “happy”, you are loved, you are provided for. Get over yourself, nutty!”  Yet, the red-raw irritant led on.

All of these things on the surface were the absolute truth. Everything was perfectly normal. But I am just not cut out for “normal.” It wasnt until my early 20’s that I realized there was a cure to this yearn. Up until that point, all I knew of “travel” was a congested mini-van, hours on end in close proxy to my immediate family, N*Sync’s self-titled cassette tape on repeat, and the loop of Southern California's surrounding regions. It was difficult to get a family of 5 packed into the car, let alone up at 36,000 ft. I had been on just 2 flights in my life before the age of 22. One to the midwest and one to my future/current home of San Francisco. The city that changed it all for me.

In my 22nd year, I moved to the Bay and was fortunate enough to accept a position that not only gave me some extra change in my pocket but also offered me the opportunity to do a bit of traveling here and there. It was a new phase in life and I was so excited to see where it would take me. Little did I know that this was the answer to my itch. Through my small adventures in the city, as well as within my position, more and more I felt that itch and emptiness dissipate. I was learning more about myself, conquering everyday moments in the city, and pushing my wit and body when it came to being a lite mover and shaker. I was totally enthralled with the day to day - almost a little too much. There was a new pestering itch, but one that I loved and wanted to cater to; this was a whole new bite and it was by the Travel Bug.

My mind most days is in the clouds. Dreaming up scenes and scenarios, playing out moments and milestones before they even manifest. Living in San Francisco these past 4 years has been the greatest leap of faith and greatest pay off. Through hard work, smart choices, ambition, thirst and my easy spirit, I have found a way to satisfy a life long itch, and even embrace this new restlessness. This account will pay homage to that process and the places that helped me learn to love my life, thus far. There is so much more to experience. So many more daydreams to turn reality! Glad we get to do it together!

What does travel mean to me?

It means scratching an itch. It means fulfilling your purpose. It means making an impact. It means humbling yourself to the people that came before you. It means being a puzzle piece in the exciting future ahead.  It means exponential learning and growth. It means understanding your affect on this planet. It means being self-reliant. It means making your own assumptions of the world and its vast cultures first hand. It means looking to yourself to be your own best resource, ally, teacher, friend. It means cementing your memories. It means freedom to take your life by the balls and call the shots for nothing but betterment. 

Like I mentioned, taking a leap of faith, despite all my calculations, led me to what I believe was the missing link of my life. I can only hope the stories and messages you see here can encourage you to take your “norm” and shove it. It's not easy for 20-somethings to feel like they can "have it all" but with wit, some planning, embracing your everyday - you can have exactly what you need.

xx

Sara De